NewzIntel.com

Category: Africa

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Inflation increased to 2 percent in June 2025

    Source: Bank of Botswana

    Headline inflation increased from 1.9 percent in May to 2 percent in June 2025, remaining below the lower bound of the medium-term objective range of 3 – 6 percent and was lower than the 2.8 percent recorded in June 2024. The marginal increase in inflation between May and June 2025 was mainly on account of the acceleration in the rate of annual price changes of a few categories of goods and services, notably Transport and Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas & other Fuels. Similarly, the 16 percent trimmed mean inflation and inflation excluding administered prices increased from 1.8 percent and 3.7 percent to 2 percent and 3.9 percent, respectively, between May and June 2025.

    Inflation for domestic tradeables decreased from 4.5 percent to 4.3 percent between May and June 2025, mainly on account of the deceleration in the rate of annual price changes of some food items in this category, including sorghum meal, white bread flour, and samp. Conversely, inflation for imported tradeables increased from 0.8 percent to 1.1 percent over the same period, mainly on account of the increase in the price of most alcoholic beverages and vehicles. Overall, all tradeables inflation increased from 1.8 percent to 2 percent between May and June 2025. Meanwhile, inflation for non-tradeables was unchanged at 2 percent in the same period.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Alpha males are surprisingly rare among primates – new research

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Louise Gentle, Principal Lecturer in Wildlife Conservation, Nottingham Trent University

    Female lemurs are often dominant. Miroslav Halama/Shutterstock

    Is it true that male animals are dominant over females? Previous studies have often found male-biased power in primates and other mammals.

    A new study, investigating physical encounters between members of the same species in 121 primates (around a quarter of all primate species) found that half of all aggressive contests were between males and females. But males won these contests in only 17% of primate populations, with females dominating in 13% – making it almost as likely for females to dominate males.

    The remaining 70% of primate populations showed no clear-cut dominance of one sex over the other. This study may have shown different results to previous research because it assessed individual contests rather than categorising species based on their social structure and physical attributes.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    The new study found male dominance, where males have a greater ability to influence the behaviour of the opposite sex, to be prevalent in primate species where the males are much larger than the females. This enables males to gain dominance through physical force or coercion. It was also widespread in species where males have weapons and mate with lots of females.

    This is typical of African and Asian monkeys and the great apes, such as gorillas. Weighing in at around 200kg, a silverback male can be twice the size of the females within his troop. Male gorillas also have large canine teeth that can seriously injure or even kill other gorillas.

    Male dominance often twins with weapons throughout the animal kingdom, – horns, antlers, claws or tusks. The largest antlers ever known were those of the now extinct Irish elk, spanning lengths up to 3.5m.

    The Irish elk is extinct but once had huge antlers.
    Fotokon/Shutterstock

    Female dominance

    Female power was seen in primate species that had a scarcity of females, one exclusive sexual partner, similar sized males and females but did not have bodily weapons, according to the new study. These are all factors that give females more choice over who to mate with.

    Female dominance was also seen in species where fighting with a male was less risky for the dependent offspring of females. For example, some primates “park” their young on their own in nests while foraging, rather than carrying them around. If a mother is holding her baby when she’s attacked, she may submit to protect her young.

    Finally, matriarchal societies were common in species that live primarily in trees, which makes it easier to flee an attacker.

    Female-dominated species were more likely in lorises, galagos and lemurs. So, contrary to the film Madagascar where King Julien is the king of the lemurs, females are, in fact, in charge. In the ring-tailed lemurs, females control access to food and mates, and maintain the dominance hierarchy where males are often at the bottom.

    This is also true of bonobos, the closest relatives of humans. Although male bonobos are larger, females form coalitions to overcome the physical power of the males and force them into submission. This show of solidarity has also been shown in humans.

    Think of how the suffragettes campaigned for women’s rights to vote in the UK. Or more recently, how women demanded new safety measures after Sarah Everard was murdered by Metropolitan Police officer Wayne Couzens in 2021.

    Galagos, also known as bushbabies, tend to live in female dominant societies.
    Jurgens Potgieter/Shutterstock

    Although female dominance has been documented less often in the wider animal kingdom, there are some examples that defy expectations. Spotted hyenas have a matriarchal society where females dominate the clans. They even have a pseudo-penis that they erect to indicate submission to more dominant individuals.



    Read more:
    Sex and power in the animal kingdom: seven animals that will make you reconsider what you think you know

    Naked mole rats have a queen that gives birth to all of the young while her offspring find food and defend the nest. The males are subordinate to the queen, but so too are the other females. In fact, the queen bullies the other members of her colony so much that the females are all rendered sterile through stress.

    But what about the 70% of primate species that were found to show no dominant sex bias in the new study? These were largely the South American monkeys such as marmosets, tamarins and capuchins, that are generally small, live in trees, are social and omnivorous.

    They also tended to have a prehensile tail that helps them grasp things. The ecology of these species fall in the middle of the male and female dominated species, with size difference and weapons being neither extreme nor absent, mating systems being neither polygamous nor monogamous, and the frequency of females being nether abundant nor rare.

    The absence of a definitive sex-bias in dominance found in the majority of primate species may be a result of the rarity of contests between males and females, or because males and females were both equally likely to win. Nevertheless, dominance varied within species. For example the percentage of intersexual contests won by female patas monkeys ranged from 0% to 61%, depending on the population studied.

    What does this mean for humans?

    Human traits are not skewed towards those of male-dominated societies in other primates. We may not live in trees but males do not have natural weapons. Males are not always bigger than females, females do not tend to outnumber males and our sexual habits are varied.

    Humans are actually more aligned to the 70% of species that show no clear distinction in sex biases, where species of either sex can become dominant. Let’s see which way evolution takes us.

    Louise Gentle works for Nottingham Trent University.

    – ref. Alpha males are surprisingly rare among primates – new research – https://theconversation.com/alpha-males-are-surprisingly-rare-among-primates-new-research-260472

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Enough of passing the buck, enough of the delay, enough of the bloodshed

    Source: Oxfam –

    In response to the EU’s foreign affairs ministers meeting to discuss the list of options for political action against Israel, Bushra Khalidi, Oxfam’s Policy Lead in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Gaza, said:  

    “Every day that passes without real action means more death and destruction. Yet, once again, Europe is kicking the can down the road.  

    “The recent aid deal may have been a step, but, in reality, it is mere breadcrumbs. Aid alone cannot stop this catastrophe. We cannot continue to watch children killed and say ‘we are making progress’. We cannot watch food rot in aid trucks while people starve and say ‘this is working.’ 

    “The EU cannot continue to maintain full ties with a government it acknowledges may be violating EU human rights principles, while offering humanitarian aid with one hand and enabling impunity with the other. 

    “We do not need another cautious statement nor another backroom deal. We need real leadership and decisive action. Enough of passing the buck. Enough of the delay. Enough of the bloodshed.”  

    EU foreign affairs ministers met today for the Foreign Affairs Council. At the meeting, EU Foreign Affairs Chief, Kaja Kallas, presented a list of options to EU foreign affairs ministers including the full or partial suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement.    

    The EU is Israel’s biggest trading partner.   

    Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement states “Relations between the Parties, as well as all the provisions of the Agreement itself, shall be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles, which guides their internal and international policy and constitutes an essential element of this Agreement.” Israel’s well-documented violations of international humanitarian law and human rights, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank, violate Article 2.     

    On Thursday, the EU and Israel agreed on steps that include “the substantial increase of daily trucks for food and non-food items to enter Gaza, the opening of several other crossing points in both the northern and southern areas; the reopening of the Jordanian and Egyptian aid routes” among other items.    

    Beyond suspending this agreement, Oxfam is calling for a permanent ceasefire, safe and unhindered humanitarian aid, an end to illegal Israeli occupation and a halt in all arm sales and transfers to Israel while there is a risk they are used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian or human rights law.      

    Jade Tenwick | Brussels, Belgium | jade.tenwick@oxfam.org | mobile +32 473 56 22 60 | Personal (WhatsApp only) +32 484 81 22 94            

    For more information on our work and to see our latest press releases, please visit oxfam.org/eu.         
        
    For updates, follow us on Twitter, BlueSky and LinkedIn.          

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace: Ramaphosa, G20 must end financial apartheid with tax on super-rich

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Durban, South Africa, 16 July 2025 – Greenpeace Africa has demanded G20 host and South African President Ramaphosa push ahead on accelerating efforts to impose a wealth tax on the world’s billionaires and to support the UN Tax Convention for new and fair global tax rules. 

    Greenpeace Africa activists hung a giant banner with a photo of South African president Cyril Ramaphosa reading ‘End Financial Apartheid #TaxTheSuperRich’, ahead of the G20’s 3rd Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ meeting in Durban. Greenpeace is demanding the G20 host push ahead on accelerating efforts to impose a wealth tax on the world’s billionaires and to support the UN Tax Convention for new and fair global tax rules. © Chanho Kondolo / Greenpeace

    Ahead of the G20’s 3rd Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ meeting, Greenpeace Africa activists dropped a 15 metre long x 2 metre high banner from a highway bridge near King Shaka International Airport with a photo of Cyril Ramaphosa and a message that said: ‘End Financial Apartheid. Tax The Super Rich’. 

    Cynthia Moyo, Lead Campaigner, Greenpeace Africa, said: “It’s outrageous that billionaires keep getting richer off a broken global tax system while millions across Africa and the world are pushed deeper into poverty and climate chaos. This is financial apartheid. South Africa understands the cost of injustice. Just as Mandela led the fight against political apartheid, President Ramaphosa now has a chance to lead the G20 in dismantling financial apartheid by taxing the super-rich and backing the UN Tax Convention. This is a fight for justice, dignity, and a future where wealth serves people, not the powerful few.”

    The action comes after an announcement at the UN Financing for Development conference that Spain, Brazil and South Africa are launching an initiative to tax the super-rich and the recent BRICS statement in support of the UN Tax Convention.[1] [2] [3]

    Fred Njehu, Global Political Lead of the Fair Share campaign, Greenpeace Africa, said: “We are on the cusp of momentous change. There is growing public and political momentum for taxing the super-rich and new global tax rules that work for all to achieve social and climate justice.

    “This is a historic opportunity for President Ramaphosa, who must seize this chance to lead the G20 in an economic direction that will serve not only the people of South Africa and the continent, but the majority world, by redistributing funds to tackle the social, environmental and climate polycrisis.

    “We ask G20 countries to support and engage constructively in the UN Tax Convention process as a global multilateral platform that will shape and determine the future of taxation, one rooted in transparency, accountability, equity and justice.”

    Globally, billionaire wealth grew three times faster in 2024 than in 2023.[4] In Africa, the four richest people have more wealth than half of the region’s 750 million people combined. Since 2020, the average income of the richest 1% in Africa has increased five times faster than that of the bottom 50%.[5]

    ENDS

    Photos and Videos can be downloaded via Greenpeace Media Library

    NOTES

    [1] At the recently concluded 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville, South Africa had joined the ranks of Spain and Brazil in forming a coalition of willing countries to work on taxing the super-rich and to support fair taxation at the upcoming UN Tax Convention negotiations. Greenpeace’s press release 

    [2] BRICS leaders’ endorsement of the UN framework for international tax cooperation. 

    [3] New global tax rules in an UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation are being negotiated, from now until 2027. It is a historic opportunity to redistribute power and wealth, and foster tax transparency and accountability. It aims to take control of global tax rules from the rich OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries to place it in the hands of the 193 member states of the United Nations. 

    [4] Oxfam report: Takers not Makers: The unjust poverty and unearned wealth of colonialism

    [5] Oxfam report: Africa’s Inequality Crisis and the Rise of the Super-Rich

    CONTACTS

    Ferdinand Omondi, Communications and Storytelling Manager, Greenpeace Africa, +254 722 505 233 , fomondi@admin

    Ibrahima Ka Ndoye, International Communications Coordinator, Greenpeace Africa, +221778437172, indoye@admin

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Somalia: Third Review Under the Extended Credit Facility and Request for a Modification of Quantitative Performance Criterion-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Somalia

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    International Monetary Fund. Middle East and Central Asia Dept. “Somalia: Third Review Under the Extended Credit Facility and Request for a Modification of Quantitative Performance Criterion-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Somalia”, IMF Staff Country Reports 2025, 191 (2025), accessed July 16, 2025, https://doi.org/10.5089/9798229014779.002

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa and Tunisia strengthen ties in science and innovation

    Source: Government of South Africa

    In a bid to deepen bilateral cooperation, South Africa and Tunisia have signed a landmark agreement aimed at scaling up collaboration in science, technology, and innovation (STI).

    The agreement, signed during the official visit of Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Blade Nzimande, to Tunisia, forms part of the Scaling up Tunisia–South Africa Strategy. It includes a detailed plan of action and the formal minutes of a joint research call meeting.

    According to the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the strategy outlines several key areas of focus, including exchange programmes, inter-institutional cooperation, joint research initiatives, intellectual property rights, innovation-driven knowledge and skills transfer, participation in international programmes, and governance.

    The signing ceremony followed an opening session featuring keynote remarks from Tunisia’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Mondher Belaid, and Minister Nzimande.

    Nzimande noted that the visit was primarily intended to strengthen STI relations between the two nations, while also reflecting on the historic ties forged during the anti-apartheid struggle.

    Emphasising the strategic value of the partnership, Nzimande said: “We hold the view that African countries must intensify sub-regional science, technology and innovation cooperation and through this, mobilise more coherent support for the implementation of the African Union’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa or STISA.”

    He also thanked the Tunisian Embassy in South Africa for its efforts in fostering bilateral relations, highlighting the recognition of Hasna Tizaoui, the Economic and Cultural Counsellor at the Tunisian Embassy, with a Science Diplomacy award.

    “To express our appreciation for this work done by your Embassy in South Africa, through our Science Forum South Africa, we awarded Ms Hasna Tizaoui, Economic and Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of Tunisia, with the prestigious Science Diplomacy award,” Nzimande said.

    Touching on global political shifts, the Minister warned of rising geopolitical pressures and called for stronger African unity in STI efforts.

    “We, therefore, hold the view that African countries must intensify sub-regional science, technology and innovation cooperation and through this, mobilise more coherent support for the implementation of the African Union’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA).”

    The new agreement builds on an already established relationship in STI cooperation between South Africa and Tunisia. It aims to accelerate the development of innovative solutions to address shared challenges such as youth unemployment, skills development, healthcare, food security, energy and water sustainability, climate change, biodiversity loss, and digital transformation.

    Nzimande was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior officials from the DSTI and its entities, including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), the National Research Foundation (NRF), and experts from Mintek (the Council for Mineral Technology). – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Assigned A+ Rating with Stable Outlook by Japan Credit Rating Agency, Strengthening Access to Asian Capital Markets

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has been assigned a long-term Issuer credit rating of A+ with a stable outlook by Japan Credit Rating Agency, Ltd (JCR). This rating will enable AFC to continue growing its footprint in Asian capital markets.

    “The credit rating reflects AFC’s leading role in infrastructure development in Africa, the strong support from its member states and shareholders, the benefits of Preferred Creditor Status (PCS), its conservative financial policy, and its strong capital base,” JCR  stated in its  report.“ AFC employs diverse funding channels, including Eurobond issuance in international capital markets; borrowing from MDBs such as the African Development Bank, PROPARCO, DEG/FMO, KFW group, Export-Import Bank of China, Korea Development Bank, etc.; and financing from African, Chinese, European, Indian, Japanese and Middle Eastern private financial institutions.”

    The Japan Credit Rating Agency’s A+ rating reflects AFC’s continued demonstration of solid capital adequacy, maintaining a Capital Adequacy Ratio of 33.6% and improving its Cost-to-Income Ratio to 17.3% in FYE2024. In 2024, AFC delivered remarkable financial results, posting a 22.8% increase in revenue to surpass US$1 billion for the first time, as well as a 16.7% rise in total assets to US$14.41 billion. Liquidity buffers remain well above prudential thresholds, with a liquidity coverage ratio of 194% under normal conditions and 191% on a stressed basis, underscoring AFC’s resilience.

    JCR’s rating decision supports the Corporation’s ability to secure competitive borrowing costs. This financial strength underpins AFC’s ability to deliver transformational infrastructure projects across power, natural resources, transport and logistics, heavy industry, telecommunications, and technology—driving industrialisation and job creation across the continent. A notable example is the Lobito Corridor, where AFC serves as lead developer. Positioned to become one of Africa’s most strategic economic arteries, the corridor will connect Angola’s Port of Lobito on the Atlantic coast to Zambia through modernised rail infrastructure, enhancing regional trade, unlocking mineral value chains, and catalysing cross-border economic integration.

    Other key AFC transactions include a US$150 million investment in the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex—Africa’s largest and one of the world’s most sustainable copper producers and leading the commercial financing of a €381.5 million package for the engineering, procurement, and construction of 186 bridges and critical upgrades to Angola’s road network, which will improve connectivity and boost regional trade.

    Leading Japanese financial institutions—Mizuho Bank, MUFG Bank, and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation have been critical partners supporting AFC on its journey of transforming Africa, participating in multiple funding transactions including bilateral, syndicated and Samurai facilities. This partnership has extended beyond AFC’s own capital-raising efforts to broader support for African issuers. A notable example is the Arab Republic of Egypt’s inaugural Samurai Bond, where AFC acted as re-guarantor and SMBC served as guarantor, facilitating a successful JPY 75 billion private placement.

    “Amidst a challenging global macroeconomic backdrop, this endorsement by JCR affirms AFC’s financial strength and credibility, enhancing our ability to mobilise competitively priced capital for transformative infrastructure projects across Africa,” said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member & Head, Financial Services at AFC. “It reinforces our position as a reliable institutional partner for Japan and a key driver of Africa-Japan cooperation.”

    “In the challenging business environment, with increasing geopolitical instability in some African countries, AFC’s role in advancing infrastructure development in Africa as an MDB established by African countries is becoming more important, and support from member states and shareholders is expected to strengthen,” JCR analysts said, commending the Corporation. “AFC conducts appropriate risk management in the challenging business environment in Africa, ensuring strong profitability and building a sound financial structure. AFC has established risk management policies for various risks associated with its operations, including credit risk, market risk, liquidity risk, operational risk, assets and liabilities management (ALM) risk, and environmental/social policy risks,” they further reported.

    Some of AFC’s landmark funding initiatives include the successful issuance of its US$500 million perpetual hybrid bond, the closing of a US$400 million Shariah-compliant Commodity Murabaha, and leading Nigeria’s inaugural domestic dollar bond issuance, which raised over US$900 million, with an oversubscription rate of 180%. These transactions underscore the Corporation’s innovative approach to capital markets, diversifying funding sources and enhancing its ability to finance transformational infrastructure projects across Africa.

    For the full statement from Japan Credit Rating Agency, please click here (https://apo-opa.co/46j2eU9). 

    – on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).

    Media Enquiries:
    Yewande Thorpe
    Communications
    Africa Finance Corporation
    Mobile: +234 1 279 9654
    Email: yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

    About AFC:
    AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

    Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 45 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion in 36 African countries since its inception. www.AfricaFC.org

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Lists RCADE Network (RCADE) for Spot Trading with 124,440,000 in Token Rewards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, and Web3 company has announced the listing of RCADE Network (RCADE), for spot trading. Besides being available for spot trading, Bitget will also launch an exclusive Launchpool rewards campaign and a CandyBomb campaign. RCADE facilitates a decentralized gaming economy driven by the community, contributors, and gamers.

    Spot trading for RCADE will go live on 9 July 2025, 13:00 (UTC) under the RCADE/USDT pair, with withdrawals available on 10 July 2025, 14:00 (UTC). Eligible users can lock BGB to grab a share of 103,200,000 RCADE. Users have to lock a minimum of 5 BGB with up to a maximum locking limit of 50,000 BGB, depending on VIP tiers. The Launchpool campaign starts on 9 July 2025, 13:00 and will run till 13 July 2025, 13:00 (UTC). There will also be a CandyBomb campaign for traders with 16,000,000 RCADE up for grabs. The CandyBomb campaign starts on 9 July 2025, 13:00 and ends on 16 July 2025, 13:00 (UTC).

    Bitget is kicking off an X Giveaway, where 750 qualified users will have the chance to win a share of 2,360,000 RCADE. The campaign runs from July 9, 2025, 13:00 to July 12, 2025, 13:00 (UTC). To participate, users must follow Bitget and RCADE on X, quote the giveaway post with the hashtag #RCADExBitgetLaunchpool, tag a friend, sign up, deposit or trade RCADE on Bitget, and complete the form linked in the post.

    In addition, a community campaign will run during the same period, offering another 2,880,000 RCADE to be shared among 1,000 qualified users. To join, users need to become members of both the Bitget Discord and BGB Holders Group, sign up, make a net deposit of over 100 USDT, and complete any RCADE/USDT spot trade.

    RCADE Network is a decentralized gaming ecosystem designed to place players at the center of both gameplay and value creation. At its core is a single interoperable token, RCADE, which powers a circular economy across all games in the Revolving Games universe. Through a distributed network of user-operated nodes, RCADE enables players to earn, exchange, and transfer value seamlessly between titles, breaking down the silos of traditional gaming platforms.

    By integrating players directly into its economic and operational structure, the network encourages participation beyond gameplay. Gamers are not just users, they then become stakeholders who contribute to and benefit from the ecosystem’s overall growth. This player-powered model supports a more inclusive and resilient environment, with nodes ensuring a secure and decentralized infrastructure for the entire network.

    Bitget continues to solidify its role as a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange, offering over 800 listed tokens across spot and derivatives markets. The addition of RCADE to Launchpool aligns with Bitget’s ongoing effort to support innovative projects whose value continues to evolve the ecosystem.

    Find more details on RCADE, visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9367fe9b-f4a3-49f9-9bae-f2c9cc2042c9

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Asante Gold Corp to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Asante Gold Corp (CSE: ASE; GSE: ASG; OTCQX: ASGOF), a Canadian gold exploration, development and operating company with a high-quality portfolio of projects and mines in Ghana, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market.

    Asante Gold Corp begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “ASGOF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Trading on the OTCQX Market offers companies efficient, cost-effective access to the U.S. capital markets. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    Dave Anthony, President and CEO, stated: “We are pleased that Asante’s common shares have been approved for trading on the OTCQX Best Market. This quotation will enhance Asante’s visibility within the U.S. investment community and provide U.S. investors with the ability to trade Asante shares in US dollars. Along with the Company’s application and conditional acceptance for listing the Company’s common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange, the OTCQX quotation is a further step in Asante’s growth strategy increasing North America market exposure diversifying the Company’s shareholder base.”

    About Asante Gold Corp
    Asante is a gold exploration, development and operating company with a high-quality portfolio of projects and mines in Ghana. Asante is currently operating the Bibiani and Chirano Gold Mines and continues with detailed technical studies at its Kubi Gold Project. All mines and exploration projects are located on the prolific Bibiani and Ashanti Gold Belts. Asante has an experienced and skilled team of mine finders, builders and operators, with extensive experience in Ghana. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange and the Ghana Stock Exchange. Asante is also exploring its Keyhole, Fahiakoba and Betenase projects for new discoveries, all adjoining or along strike of major gold mines near the centre of Ghana’s Golden Triangle. Additional information is available on the Company’s website at www.asantegold.com.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.

    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market, OTCID™ Basic Market and Pink Limited™ Market. Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS™ are each SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC. To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • India reiterates zero tolerance for money laundering, terror funding

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has reaffirmed its commitment to combat money laundering and terror financing, aligning its domestic frameworks with global standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

    Established in 1989 during the G7 Summit in Paris, FATF plays a crucial role in protecting the integrity of the global financial system. With 40 members today, the body’s recommendations have shaped anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) regimes worldwide, with over 200 countries pledging to comply.

    India became FATF’s 34th member in 2010 and has since demonstrated zero tolerance towards terror financing and money laundering. The country’s frameworks, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (2002) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (1967), are designed to detect and disrupt illicit flows of funds linked to organised crime, terrorism, and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

    The FATF regularly identifies jurisdictions with weak measures through its public “grey list” and “blacklist.” As of June June 13, 2025, 24 countries — including South Africa, Syria, and Vietnam — are under increased monitoring. Nations like North Korea, Iran, and Myanmar remain on the blacklist due to persistent strategic deficiencies. Notably, FATF data shows that out of 139 countries reviewed, 86 have undertaken reforms to strengthen their AML/CFT frameworks.

    India’s proactive approach is reflected in its consistent alignment with FATF standards and contributions to global assessments and case studies, demonstrating its role as a responsible player in safeguarding global security and financial transparency.

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget COO Tours UCLA, Harvard and LALIGA Business School, Accelerating Blockchain Education

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, is making bold strides in the academic space, blending blockchain education with real-world brand strategy. On a recent multi-campus tour, Bitget COO Vugar Usi Zade visited LALIGA Business School, UCLA, and Harvard, where he shared how Bitget’s global partnerships and Web3 initiatives are rewriting the playbook for the future of finance, sponsorship, and digital culture.

    Vugar Usi Zade, Bitget COO speaking at LALIGA Business School

    At LALIGA Business School, Vugar delivered a dedicated MBA session on “The Business of Entertainment and Sponsorships as Growth Tools,” using Bitget’s high-profile collaborations with Juventus and Lionel Messi as a blueprint for strategic scaling. The case study examined how such partnerships drive awareness, increase user acquisition, and deepen market trust across diverse regions. A key highlight was Bitget’s multi-year partnership with LALIGA, which was examined as a model for upper-funnel activation and regional engagement.

    Students analyzed Bitget’s stadium-level branding efforts, VIP and KOL-led activations, and the broader impact of experiential campaigns, such as watch parties featuring LALIGA footballers, helping localize the Bitget brand while expanding its global footprint. The class also discussed Bitget’s recent campaign with Raphinha, FC Barcelona winger, showcasing how player-focused storytelling can reinforce brand positioning across football’s passionate fan base.

    “The Bitget x LALIGA collaboration is more than a sponsorship—it’s a long-term partnership built on shared values and global vision,” said Vugar Usi Zade, COO of Bitget. “From stadiums to classrooms, we’re committed to bringing the excitement of Spanish football and the promise of blockchain technology to audiences worldwide. Our collaboration with LALIGA Business School reflects that ambition in educating the next generation of business leaders while placing Bitget at the intersection of sport, finance, and innovation.”

    Bitget’s Blockchain4Youth initiative, a $10 million global program designed to educate and empower young talent in the Web3 space, has already partnered with over 70 universities worldwide, including LALIGA Business School. Through this collaboration, MBA students gain priority access to the Bitget Builders Program, a structured graduate track that includes a COO apprenticeship, international mentorship, and real-world experience across Bitget’s business verticals.

    As part of its academic outreach, Bitget brought Web3 to the classroom, delving into tokenomics with students at UCLA’s Department of Economics and taking center stage at the Harvard Blockchain Conference, where the company was featured as a case study in next-generation crypto innovation.

    Whether breaking down blockchain basics or reimagining sports sponsorships in the digital age, Bitget’s campus tour reflects a growing push to connect with future talent, spark curiosity, and bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world Web3 impact.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.

    Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/db591935-1bbf-4ef5-929c-fb8c22e16132

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/085a7fc1-4f14-4a79-b5d8-d7e0064f5baa

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: APO Group Wins Gold at 2025 SABRE Awards for Canon Central and North Africa Campaign, Secures Five Finalist Placements

    Source: APO

    APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, has been recognised with top honours at the prestigious 2025 SABRE Awards Africa, winning gold for its pioneering World Unseen Experience at GITEX Africa campaign with Canon Central and North Africa. The campaign showcased Canon’s innovative efforts to make photography accessible to people with visual impairments through tactile imagery, transforming the way art and visual storytelling are experienced.

    APO Group was also shortlisted as a finalist in five other categories, reinforcing its position as the communications partner of choice for some of the continent’s most impactful and purpose-led organisations. The finalist placements include campaigns for:

    • GITEX Africa 2024, Africa’s largest tech and startup show;
    • Africa’s Business Heroes 2023, a flagship philanthropic programme in Africa to support entrepreneurs;
    • The Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI); and
    • Canon Central and North Africa’s 10 Years of Miraisha: A Decade of Empowerment campaign

    “We are incredibly proud to see the impact of our clients’ campaigns being recognised at such a high level. Winning gold for Canon’s World Unseen is particularly meaningful as it demonstrates how communications can drive accessibility and inclusivity. Additionally, our finalist placements across such diverse categories reflect the strength, creativity, and dedication of our team, and our commitment to sharing Africa’s positive narratives,” said Bas Wijne, Chief Executive Officer at APO Group.

    The SABRE Awards are globally recognised for celebrating superior achievement in branding, reputation, and engagement. The World Unseen campaign’s success at the SABRE Awards Africa 2025 follows its earlier win this year at the 2025 Davos Communications Awards, where APO Group secured gold and bronze for its innovative approach to inclusive brand experiences. Read more about the Davos wins here (http://apo-opa.co/4kHb5lV).

    “These accolades are a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in everything we do. It is an honour to partner with clients who trust us to tell Africa’s most compelling stories with authenticity, impact, and purpose,” added Rania El-Rafie, APO Group’s Vice President: Public Relations & Strategic Communications.

    This latest industry recognition further cements APO Group’s position as the continent’s only 360-degree public relations and strategic communications consultancy, with its own proprietary press release distribution service, Africa Newsroom (http://apo-opa.co/4kEukMY).

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

    Media contact: 
    marie@apo-opa.com 

    About APO Group: 
    Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.   

    Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards. 

    APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.  

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese envoy regrets abuse of UN Security Council resolutions on Houthi attacks in Red Sea

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    UNITED NATIONS, July 16 (Xinhua) — Yemen’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity must be respected, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations Geng Shuang said on Tuesday after the UN Security Council adopted a resolution on Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.

    “China is deeply concerned about this development,” he said, referring to the recent escalation of tensions in the Red Sea in connection with a new round of fighting between Israel and the Houthis in Yemen.

    “We call on the Houthis to respect the navigation rights of commercial vessels of all countries in the Red Sea in accordance with international law, to stop attacks on commercial vessels and to ensure the security of the Red Sea waterways,” he stressed.

    “All parties concerned should exercise calm and restraint and refrain from actions that could further escalate tensions,” Geng Shuang said, adding that the tensions in the Red Sea are an important manifestation of the conflict spilling over from the Gaza Strip.

    A settlement of the problems in the Red Sea and Yemen cannot be achieved without easing tensions and de-escalating the overall situation in the region, the diplomat said.

    The international community must act immediately to achieve an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza and fully restore humanitarian access, he said.

    On Tuesday, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2787 by 12 votes in favor, with no votes against and three abstentions (Algeria, China and Russia). The resolution extends until January 15, 2026, the requirement set out in Resolution 2722 for the UN Secretary-General to report monthly to the Security Council on Houthi attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea.

    Since the adoption of Resolution 2722 in January 2024, some countries have taken military action against Yemen, seriously undermining the Yemeni peace process and escalating tensions in the Red Sea, the negative consequences of which continue to this day, Geng Shuang said.

    Resolution 2722 condemns Houthi attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea, demands an immediate end to all such attacks and “takes note of the right of Member States, in accordance with international law, to protect their vessels from attacks, including those that undermine the rights and freedom of navigation.” –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Rolls Out Web3 Young Learners’ Encyclopedia to Schools, Libraries, and Beyond

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has announced the release of Web3 Young Learners’ Encyclopedia, marking a key milestone in its #Blockchain4Youth global education initiative. The print edition will be distributed across schools, libraries, and community centers to promote blockchain literacy among young learners, while the digital version will be available through CoinGecko, the leading independent crypto data aggregator.

    Structured as an A-to-Z guide, the encyclopedia introduces young readers to the world of blockchain through easy-to-understand terms, think “A is for Altcoin” and “Z is for Zero-Knowledge Proofs.” Each letter features clear definitions and playful illustrations that break down complex ideas into bite-sized, beginner-friendly explanations. It’s a fun, approachable way to spark curiosity about digital finance and help kids grasp the building blocks of Web3 from an early age.

    “To me, education remains the most effective entry point to the future of blockchain,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “The encyclopedia is designed to bridge the knowledge gap by meeting young learners where they are with clear language and relevant examples, in a format that makes blockchain approachable.”

    The development of the encyclopedia was undertaken in collaboration with Cryptita Plays, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to empowering youth through blockchain education and outreach programs. Drawing from its experience working directly with students and educators in underserved communities, Cryptita Plays provided valuable on-the-ground insights that helped shape the content and approach of the encyclopedia. This partnership reinforces the shared goal of both organizations—to make blockchain education more approachable, inclusive, and impactful for young learners worldwide.

    “Our aim has always been to make blockchain meaningful to the next generation—not as a distant concept, but as something they can see, touch, and understand,” said Arshelene Lingao, founder of Cryptita Plays. “This encyclopedia is a tool to help bring those ideas to life and beyond the classroom.”

    The print rollout will commence in areas where internet access is limited or inconsistent, allowing for offline education in underserved regions. The printed edition complements the online version of the encyclopedia, which remains accessible to learners worldwide, encouraging learning and multilingual adaptation. The online encyclopedia can be found here. To extend its reach, the digital edition will also be hosted on CoinGecko, making the encyclopedia more accessible to young learners, educators, and blockchain newcomers globally. CoinGecko users can redeem the encyclopedia through the Candy Rewards program using Candies earned from daily check-ins. View the CoinGecko page here.

    “Blockchain is often framed as the future, but its impact already shapes lives today. The goal is to ensure young people, regardless of geography or background, have the tools to participate in that future,” said Vugar Usi Zade, COO of Bitget. “This encyclopedia is one way of turning abstract concepts into real plans. It’s a small start, but an important one.”

    The encyclopedia is part of Bitget’s broader Blockchain4Youth initiative, a global education effort aimed at equipping the next generation with foundational knowledge of blockchain and digital assets. Designed to be both accessible and engaging, the initiative delivers learning resources through physical publications like the encyclopedia, as well as digital content and in-person programming. By introducing key Web3 concepts in formats that are age-appropriate and widely accessible, Blockchain4Youth aims to make blockchain literacy a practical reality for students worldwide, particularly in regions where access to emerging technology education is limited.

    To learn more about the encyclopedia, visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist), and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/87f81256-cc72-4690-b851-d57be60236ac

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA’s G20 Presidency aims for sustainable economic growth, job creation

    Source: Government of South Africa

    As the Chair of the Group of 20 (G20), South Africa’s goal is to promote mutually beneficial economic growth, create jobs and advance sustainable development for its partner nations, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

    Mashatile was speaking during the opening ceremony of the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing on Wednesday. The event showcases the latest developments in supply chain management.

    The Deputy President told the attendees that South Africa firmly believes that the establishment of enduring business relationships must occur within the framework of a fair, inclusive, and rules-based global economic order. 

    “This order should prioritise industrialisation, investment in green technologies, and digital infrastructure as key components of sustainable development, especially for developing economies.”

    These priorities, according to the country’s second-in-command, are reflected in the overall CISCE programme, which closely aligns with areas of potential cooperation between South Africa and China. 

    “We, therefore, invite our Chinese counterparts to support and participate in the key pillars of our G20 agenda by investing in green industrial projects, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and regional manufacturing initiatives in South Africa and across the African continent.

    “Through such collaboration, we can deepen our strategic partnership and ensure that the outcomes of South Africa’s G20 Presidency reflect the shared aspirations of the Global South,” he said. 

    WATCH | Deputy President in Beijing

    [embedded content]

    The Deputy President said South Africa looks forward to hosting Chinese and other international buyers, importers and distributors in a tailored procurement mission that will be arranged on the margins of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025. 

    “We urge all stakeholders to seize these opportunities, foster partnerships, share best practices, and collectively shape the future of supply chain management to build a more connected, resilient, and prosperous world.” 

    READ | Rise in e-commerce activity boosts SA’s supply chain sector

    The G20 consists of 19 member countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It also includes two regional organisations, the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU).

    The G20 members include the world’s major economies, representing 85% of global gross domestic product (GDP), over 75% of international trade, and about two-thirds of the world population. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africans are safe, security cluster solid – Minister Ntshavheni

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has assured South Africans that the country is secure and the security cluster remains solid and functional.

    The Minister made these remarks during a media briefing in Cape Town on Tuesday, where she released the redacted version of the National Security Strategy (NSS) and the National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) for the sixth administration. 

    Responding to questions from the media regarding current risks to national security, Ntshavheni revealed that government had identified, among others, the threat of a coup d’état but emphasised that no such attempt had materialised.

    “We have listed the risks and remember a risk does not necessarily materialise…You need to identify it and mitigate against it. One of the risks is the risk of coup d’état. We have identified it and put measures to mitigate against it.

    “That’s why we say to South Africans, there’s not been anyone attempting to do a coup in South Africa. In the last few days or in the last few weeks, there’s not been anyone. Not that there are not people planning, they are – but we continuously monitoring them and making sure that we deal with those,” the Minister said.

    Reinforcing this message, Minister Ntshavheni added that the security cluster is solid and well able to do its work. 

    “The security cluster is solid, it is able to do its work. There are men and women in various capacities, who continue to work as patriots for the protection of this country and there are men and women in the intelligence services or intelligence community who continue to work to make sure this country is safe. There are men and women in the defence and police services who work for the greater benefit of this country,” she said. 

    The Minister said government is taking a transparent and proactive approach to national security, noting that the release of the NSS and NIE would allow public engagement and strengthen accountability. 

    “So, any matters or challenges that confront us, we are a resilient nation, we’ve always found solutions, we’ve always been able to deal with challenges and we’ve addressed them,” the Minister said.

    She said the President has taken decisive action by establishing a commission of inquiry with expedited timelines and a clear mandate to report findings to Parliament and the judiciary – further underscoring government’s commitment to transparency and swift action.

    “That must give South Africans the comfort that their security is a priority for this government,” the Minister said.

    Read I Mkhwanazi allegations: What the judicial commission of inquiry will probe

    Ntshavheni emphasised that releasing the public version of the National Security Strategy would further empower citizens to understand government’s policy and strategic focus.

    “So other countries release the strategies, it will help South Africans to understand, what are we focusing on at the policy and strategy level and how they can also help. We have not given you the full strategy. We have given you what we call the public version of the strategy, because the others that are sensitive are for our implementation and other agencies that we work with. But it’s important that South Africans understand our mandate and what we are focusing on,” she said. 

    This strategy, she explained, guides the work of the State Security Agency and the broader intelligence community.

    “You must hold us accountable – to say what you have set yourself as the pillars of the strategy, what is the progress you are making, including what we call the national intelligence estimates and priorities,” the Minister said. 

    She further indicated that the Department is open to discussions about national security progress and challenges – both at domestic and foreign levels.

    No threats to G20 delegates

    Addressing concerns around the safety of G20 delegates as South Africa prepares to host key events ahead of the G20 summit later this year, Minister Ntshavheni assured that there is no single threat to delegates. 

    “We do threats assessments for all meetings, it doesn’t matter if it’s a Sherpa meeting or a Ministerial meeting. We do threat assessments in time and we mitigate. There has not been any threats coming out in South Africa. The safety and security of the delegates of the G20 is guaranteed,” she said.

    The Minister referenced South Africa’s successful hosting of other high-level events in the past, including the BRICS Summit, to affirm the country’s capability to provide secure environments for global engagements.

    “It is not the first important meeting that this country has hosted. We have hosted the BRICS Summit with high profile delegates who are mostly at risk, and everybody was safe in this country,” Minister Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Crush at Gaza aid site kills at least 20, GHF blames armed agitators

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 20 Palestinians were killed on Wednesday at an aid distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), in what the U.S.-backed group said was a crowd surge instigated by armed agitators.

    The GHF, which is supported by Israel, said 19 people were trampled and one fatally stabbed during the crush at one of its centres in Khan Younis in southern Gaza.

    “We have credible reason to believe that elements within the crowd – armed and affiliated with Hamas – deliberately fomented the unrest,” GHF said in a statement.

    There has been no immediate comment from Hamas.

    Palestinian heath officials told Reuters 21 people had died of suffocation at the site. One medic said lots of people had been crammed into a small space and had been crushed.

    On Tuesday, the U.N. rights office in Geneva said it had recorded at least 875 killings within the past six weeks in the vicinity of aid sites and food convoys in Gaza – the majority of them close to GHF distribution points.

    Most of those deaths were caused by gunfire that locals have blamed on the Israeli military. The military has acknowledged that Palestinian civilians were harmed near aid distribution centres, saying that Israeli forces had been issued new instructions with “lessons learned”.

    The GHF uses private U.S. security and logistics companies to get supplies into Gaza, largely bypassing a U.N.-led system that Israel alleges has let Hamas-led militants loot aid shipments intended for civilians. Hamas denies the accusation.

    The U.N. has called the GHF’s model unsafe and a breach of humanitarian impartiality standards – an allegation GHF has denied.

    Amjad Al-Shawa, director of the Palestinian NGOs Network, accused the GHF on Wednesday of gross mismanagement, saying its lack of crowd control and failure to uphold humanitarian principles had led to chaos and death among desperate civilians.

    “People who flock in their thousands (to GHF sites) are hungry and exhausted, and they get squeezed into narrow places, amid shortages of aid and the absence of organization and discipline by the GHF,” he told Reuters.

    The war in Gaza, triggered in October 2023 by a deadly Hamas attack on Israel, has devastated large swathes of the coastal enclave, displaced almost all of the territory’s population and led to widespread hunger and privation.

    ISRAELI ARMY ROAD

    Earlier on Wednesday, the Israeli military said it had finished paving a new road in southern Gaza separating several towns east of Khan Younis from the rest of the territory in an effort to disrupt Hamas operations.

    Palestinians see the road, which extends Israeli control, as a way to pressure on Hamas in ongoing ceasefire talks, which started on July 6 and are being brokered by Arab mediators Egypt and Qatar with the backing of the United States.

    Palestinian sources close to the negotiations said a breakthrough had not yet been reached on any of the main issues under discussion.

    Hamas said Israel wanted to keep at least 40% of the Gaza Strip under its control as part of any deal, which the group rejected. Hamas has also demanded the dismantlement of the GHF and the reinstatement of a U.N.-led aid delivery mechanism.

    Senior Hamas official Basem Naim said the road showed Israel was not serious about reaching a ceasefire deal.

    “It confirms the occupation’s long-term intentions and plans to remain inside the Strip, not to withdraw, and not to end the war. This contradicts everything it claims at the negotiating table or communicates to mediators,” Naim said in a post on his Facebook page.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the war will end once Hamas is disarmed and removed from Gaza.

    Gaza local health authorities said Israeli military strikes have killed at least 17 people across the enclave on Wednesday.

    Israel’s campaign in Gaza has killed more than 58,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.

    Almost 1,650 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed as a result of the conflict, including 1,200 killed in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. An estimated 50 Israelis and foreign nationals remain captive in Gaza, including 28 hostages who have been declared dead and whose bodies are being withheld.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The BRICS + summit in Brazil raises the banner of multilateralism

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 16 July 2025

    Alexandre Brum – BRICS Brasil

    by Cosimo GrazianiRio de Janeiro (Agenzia Fides) – On July 6 and 7, the annual summit of the so-called BRICS countries took place in Rio de Janeiro. This forum of states was founded in 2009 and has grown in recent years to include eleven countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. This year’s meeting was preceded by a series of events that affected its members and fueled expectations about its implementation, most notably the brief conflict between Israel and Iran, in which the United States intervened on the side of the Jewish state. However, expectations of a clear stance on this and other issues were dashed. The geopolitical actor that best took advantage of the international visibility associated with the summit was the host country, Brazil, which organized events such as the G20 summit last year, assumed the presidency of MERCOSUR, and will host the next UN climate conference. This series of events, which also included the organization of the BRICS Summit, enabled the Brazilian government to reaffirm its international stance in favor of multilateralism. Multilateralism was also the first topic addressed by Brazilian President Lula in his introductory speech. Luiz Inàcio Lula da Silva specifically criticized the threat to the progress made in recent years by organizations such as the United Nations. The Brazilian president explicitly mentioned the setbacks on issues such as climate and trade, in the latter case a not-so-disguised allusion to Donald Trump’s tariff policy.The topics of multilateralism and tariffs were mentioned in the summit’s final declaration, along with health, artificial intelligence, climate change, and the promotion of peace and security. Criticism was also directed at Israel’s actions in the Middle East and the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. These accusations were also extended to the 5% increase in military spending ordered by NATO countries: Lula particularly criticized the lack of investment for peace. At the same time, little was said about the war in Ukraine. What caused a stir during the summit was the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping: the former likely to avoid embarrassing Brazil in connection with the international arrest warrant issued against the Russian president by the International Criminal Court; the latter officially had other concurrent commitments. Analysts’ eyes were on the summit because of its increasing importance for the so-called Global South. The organization now represents a large portion of the world’s population and an equally large share of global GDP—37% to be precise. The decisions of this group clarify whether and how the Global South will be able to exert a similar importance in global governance as the G7 countries, or even replace the G20 summit in its importance, the only forum that currently offers countries in this category the opportunity to gain visibility and significance in global scenarios. Compared to the G20, the BRICS forum is composed exclusively of countries that seek to relativize the influence of Western and developed countries. Whether this succeeds will depend on whether the member countries manage to negotiate common positions on key issues and achieve some form of political or economic integration. Regarding the latter, all BRICS members agree in proposing and advocating de-dollarization and the replacement of the US dollar with individual states’ currencies in trade transactions.The problem is that not everyone is ready for this transition, which would mean distancing themselves from Washington: countries like Russia and China are strongly in favor of it, while others like Saudi Arabia, due to their ongoing relations with Washington, do not accept such a prospect. It remains to be seen, therefore, whether US President Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on the group’s countries as they move away from the dollar will become reality. If so, the reactions of individual states to such a threat will be a true test of their loyalty to the group. Overall, it can be said that the results of the summit were mixed and that the only country that stood out somewhat more was Brazil as the organizer, because it was able to promote the main points of its foreign policy, starting with the call for multilateralism. It is premature to say that the group does not have what it takes to become an alternative to the West. However, many analysts believe that the overly diverse interests of its members will hinder the organization’s development. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the BRICS members have reached their 17th summit and that a “hard core” has emerged within the organization, in which Russia and China play a key role in finding an alternative approach to the world’s problems, different from that of the ruling groups in many Western countries. All these elements indicate that the path toward an organization of the Global South could gain weight in international relations and surpass the role played by the G20 so far. (Agenzia Fides, 16/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The BRICS + summit in Brazil raises the banner of multilateralism

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 16 July 2025

    Alexandre Brum – BRICS Brasil

    by Cosimo GrazianiRio de Janeiro (Agenzia Fides) – On July 6 and 7, the annual summit of the so-called BRICS countries took place in Rio de Janeiro. This forum of states was founded in 2009 and has grown in recent years to include eleven countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. This year’s meeting was preceded by a series of events that affected its members and fueled expectations about its implementation, most notably the brief conflict between Israel and Iran, in which the United States intervened on the side of the Jewish state. However, expectations of a clear stance on this and other issues were dashed. The geopolitical actor that best took advantage of the international visibility associated with the summit was the host country, Brazil, which organized events such as the G20 summit last year, assumed the presidency of MERCOSUR, and will host the next UN climate conference. This series of events, which also included the organization of the BRICS Summit, enabled the Brazilian government to reaffirm its international stance in favor of multilateralism. Multilateralism was also the first topic addressed by Brazilian President Lula in his introductory speech. Luiz Inàcio Lula da Silva specifically criticized the threat to the progress made in recent years by organizations such as the United Nations. The Brazilian president explicitly mentioned the setbacks on issues such as climate and trade, in the latter case a not-so-disguised allusion to Donald Trump’s tariff policy.The topics of multilateralism and tariffs were mentioned in the summit’s final declaration, along with health, artificial intelligence, climate change, and the promotion of peace and security. Criticism was also directed at Israel’s actions in the Middle East and the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. These accusations were also extended to the 5% increase in military spending ordered by NATO countries: Lula particularly criticized the lack of investment for peace. At the same time, little was said about the war in Ukraine. What caused a stir during the summit was the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping: the former likely to avoid embarrassing Brazil in connection with the international arrest warrant issued against the Russian president by the International Criminal Court; the latter officially had other concurrent commitments. Analysts’ eyes were on the summit because of its increasing importance for the so-called Global South. The organization now represents a large portion of the world’s population and an equally large share of global GDP—37% to be precise. The decisions of this group clarify whether and how the Global South will be able to exert a similar importance in global governance as the G7 countries, or even replace the G20 summit in its importance, the only forum that currently offers countries in this category the opportunity to gain visibility and significance in global scenarios. Compared to the G20, the BRICS forum is composed exclusively of countries that seek to relativize the influence of Western and developed countries. Whether this succeeds will depend on whether the member countries manage to negotiate common positions on key issues and achieve some form of political or economic integration. Regarding the latter, all BRICS members agree in proposing and advocating de-dollarization and the replacement of the US dollar with individual states’ currencies in trade transactions.The problem is that not everyone is ready for this transition, which would mean distancing themselves from Washington: countries like Russia and China are strongly in favor of it, while others like Saudi Arabia, due to their ongoing relations with Washington, do not accept such a prospect. It remains to be seen, therefore, whether US President Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on the group’s countries as they move away from the dollar will become reality. If so, the reactions of individual states to such a threat will be a true test of their loyalty to the group. Overall, it can be said that the results of the summit were mixed and that the only country that stood out somewhat more was Brazil as the organizer, because it was able to promote the main points of its foreign policy, starting with the call for multilateralism. It is premature to say that the group does not have what it takes to become an alternative to the West. However, many analysts believe that the overly diverse interests of its members will hinder the organization’s development. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the BRICS members have reached their 17th summit and that a “hard core” has emerged within the organization, in which Russia and China play a key role in finding an alternative approach to the world’s problems, different from that of the ruling groups in many Western countries. All these elements indicate that the path toward an organization of the Global South could gain weight in international relations and surpass the role played by the G20 so far. (Agenzia Fides, 16/7/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Africa: Liquid Intelligent Technologies and DropByDrop partner to drive smart water management across Kenya

    Source: APO

    Liquid Intelligent Technologies (Liquid) (www.Liquid.Tech), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader of African heritage, has announced a strategic partnership with DropByDrop Water Systems (DropByDrop), a global provider of smart water technologies. This collaboration, which combines Liquid’s extensive network and tailored technology solutions with DropByDrop’s cloud-based water management platform, will deliver smart water solutions to resolve non-revenue water challenges in the country.

    “Water scarcity is a growing challenge across the continent, and managing this precious resource efficiently is more important than ever. Through our partnership with DropByDrop, we’re bringing Liquid’s advanced technology and data-driven solutions to Kenya’s water sector. By helping providers digitise their infrastructure and build smart water ecosystems, we’re empowering them to serve their communities better,” said Neeraj Pradhan, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Liquid Kenya.  

    Addressing non-revenue water challenges is a key focus of this partnership, with reports (http://apo-opa.co/4lzAoaX) indicating that approximately 47% of the water released for distribution in Kenya remains unaccounted for. By reducing these losses through improved leak detection, accurate metering, and real-time monitoring, water utilities can boost revenue collection and unlock greater funding opportunities for water infrastructure development.

    Furthermore, smart water solutions play a crucial role in advancing broader societal and environmental objectives. The data generated supports environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting, demonstrates progress towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and enables informed planning for urban development and infrastructure expansion.

    Liquid’s existing Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure integrates with DropByDrop’s platform to provide reliable, efficient water delivery based on real-time data. SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) integration enables remote monitoring and control, while geo-asset management ensures that infrastructure is well-maintained. Additionally, remote valve control allows for quick shut-offs or adjustments. The platform’s multilingual design and compatibility with various networks mean more people benefit from accurate billing, usage monitoring, and leak detection alerts.

    “Water is at the heart of life, yet millions still struggle to access it reliably. At DropByDrop, our mission is to harness the power of data and technology to make every drop count. Leveraging Liquid’s extensive infrastructure enables us to scale our advanced water management platform in Kenya. Together, we’re creating a future where water is managed sustainably, equitably, and intelligently,” said Sergey Khorolsky, International Projects Partner of DropByDrop.

    Liquid’s collaboration with DropByDrop underscores the critical role technology plays in addressing everyday challenges. Bringing innovative digital solutions to water management not only enhances service stability but also ensures that users have reliable, data-powered access to this essential resource, while reducing non-revenue water wastage. It also reflects Liquid’s commitment to delivering end-to-end technology solutions that support Africa’s digital transformation journey.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

    About Liquid Intelligent Technologies:
    Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a business of Cassava Technologies (Cassava), a technology company of African heritage with operations in 40-plus markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where the Cassava group companies operate. Liquid has firmly established itself as the leading provider of pan-African digital infrastructure with a 110,000 km-long fibre broadband network and satellite connectivity that provides high-speed access to the Internet anywhere in Africa. Liquid is also leveraging its digital network to provide Cloud and Cyber Security solutions through strategic partnerships with leading global players. Liquid is a comprehensive technology solutions group that provides customised digital solutions to public and private sector enterprises and SMEs across the continent.

    For more information, visit https://www.Liquid.Tech/.  

    About DropByDrop Water Systems:
    DropByDrop (DBD) is Hardware Vendor Neutral, Multi-protocol Compatible, Cloud-based Smart Water Management Internet of Things (IoT) Platform with Intelligent Billing, Alerts and Geo-Asset Management, SCADA integration and Big Data Analytics capabilities.

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: What’s Next for African Upstream? African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 to Explore 2026 Market Trends

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    With Africa’s upstream capital expenditure expected to reach $54 billion by 2030, the continent is gearing up for significant growth. A rise in frontier drilling, untapped resources in proven petroleum plays in tandem with growing global demand for sustainable fuels is expected to drive spending, with African licensing rounds further supporting investments. Amid this growth, key challenges come to the fore, including access to financing and maximizing output at mature fields. As such, the question remains: what’s next for African upstream?

    This year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – will feature a series of presentations and panel discussions tackling this very question. A panel discussion on Frontier Plays Within Africa’s Mature Basins will examine strategies for unlocking additional reserves at mature assets. Speakers include Katrina Fisher, Managing Director at ExxonMobil Angola; Layi Fatona, Chairman of the Board, Renaissance Africa Energy Company; and Osayande Igiehon, Managing Director and CEO, Heirs Energies. As operators focus on perseverance and value creation from late-life assets, the session will explore the benefits of repurposing mature fields to meet anticipated energy demand.

    Ahead of the panel discussion, Dan Pratt, Head of Upstream Solutions at global energy and commodities information provider S&P Global Commodity Insights, will deliver a presentation on What’s Next for African Upstream in 2026. The presentation will unpack key challenges and opportunities across the continent’s upstream market. Additionally, Tony Attah, Managing Director and CEO of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, will participate in a Fireside Chat, delving into ongoing projects and future investment strategies.

    In 2026, Africa’s upstream sector is set to receive a major boost, with investments by companies such as ExxonMobil set to unlock new reserves as mature fields. In Angola, the company targets greater production at legacy assets, leveraging policies such as the Incremental Production Initiative to bolster output. In June 2025, the company signed a production sharing contract extension for Block 17 offshore Angola. The extension enables the ongoing use of existing infrastructure and technical expertise to maximize value from the mature field. This follows a discovery made by ExxonMobil in 2024 at the Likember-01 research well. The first find under the country’s Incremental Production Initiative, the discovery showcases the potential for greater production.  

    Meanwhile, Renaissance Africa Energy Company – a consortium of independent oil and gas companies – is also positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s upstream sector. The company is investing $15 billion across 32 oil and gas projects over the next five years, aiming to establish itself as a prominent player in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. This follows the $1.3 billion acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria, affirming the company’s role in the country’s upstream sector. For Heirs Energies, investing in both producing and exploration assets is a top priority. As operator of OML 17 in Nigeria, the company has doubled production from 25,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 50,000 bpd since the block’s acquisition from Shell in 2021. Looking ahead, the company strives to replicate this success in other markets and is eyeing new investment opportunities in the Republic of Congo – one of Africa’s biggest oil producers.   

    The AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 panel discussions and presentations will explore the impact these investments will have on Africa’s upstream sector. Insights into anticipated drilling campaigns, upcoming projects and challenges will be shared, providing a comprehensive overview of the continent’s upstream market. 

    – on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Sports Unified (ASU) launches ‘ASU Insider’ – A Strategic Membership Platform for African Sport Leaders

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    Africa Sports Unified (ASU) (https://ASUnified.com), the world’s first and leading Pan-African Sports Business Hub, is pleased to announce the launch of ASU Insider – a new strategic membership platform designed to empower decision-makers and key stakeholders driving the growth of sport across Africa.

    “Over the past 18 months, we’ve spoken with key stakeholders to understand what they value and what’s holding the industry back,” said Gabriel Ajala, Founder of Africa Sports Unified. “It was overwhelmingly clear: what’s missing is a trusted platform, real insights and meaningful connections. ASU Insider in the solution – providing the tools, context, and relationships to lead, partner and grow across the continent.”

    The ASU Insider | Founding Circle

    As part of the platform’s pilot phase, ASU is opening applications for the ASU Insider | Founding Circle — a handpicked group of 10 stakeholders who will be early adopters of the new platform and play a direct role in shaping its roadmap.

    What Founding Circle Members Receive:

    • Monthly Market Intelligence Briefings: Exclusive insights on policy, investment, rights, and governance trends shaping African sport
    • Expert Led Live Session: Closed-door discussions with influential voices in sports, development, and business
    • Priority Access to ASU Reports, Tools, and Data Assets
    • Advisory Access and Strategic Introductions: Curated access to ASU’s team and network of continental leaders.
    • Early Influence on ASU’s Research Roadmap: Founding members help shape the platform’s direction.

    Who It’s For:

    • Government Ministries & Policy Leaders
    • Rights Holders (Clubs, Federations etc.)
    • Inter-Governmental Organisations & DFIs
    • Sponsors & Brands
    • Investors
    • Development Finance Institutions

    Now Accepting Applications

    Applications for the Founding Circle are now open.

    [ASU Insider | Founding Circle Waitlist Link]: http://apo-opa.co/3THSlrC

    Founding Circle members will receive early influence, and a front-row seat to shaping Africa’s sports transformation.

    – on behalf of Africa Sports Unified.

    For Media Inquiries, please contact:
    info@asunified.com

    Social Pages:
    Linktree: https://apo-opa.co/46N5UgX
    Videos: https://apo-opa.co/4nHE3Vs
    Website: https://ASUnified.com

    About Africa sports Unified:
    Africa Sports Unified is the world’s leading Pan-African sports business hub. Driving Economic Growth and Industry Innovation, through data-driven insights, strategic consulting, and community engagement.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: ‘A Dream Realized’: Mercy Ships Supports First-Of-Its-Kind African Dental Education Symposium

    Source: APO – Report:

    What began as a dream two years ago has now become a reality in Casablanca, Morocco. On July 11 and 12, 2025, representatives from 24 nations across the continent gathered at Université Mohammed VI des Sciences de la Santé (UM6SS) for the inaugural African Dental Education Symposium, which culminated in the creation of the groundbreaking African Education Dental Association (AEDA).

    The need for an association of this kind is pressing, as African nations face a critical shortage of dental professionals. According to the World Health Organization, there are just 0.44 dentists per 10,000 people (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) in Africa, compared to around 7 per 10,000 (https://apo-opa.co/4f0Tgx6) in many high-income countries. Only 84 dental schools operate (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) across 26 African nations. This contributes to the fact that, as of 2021, around 42% of Africa’s population have untreated oral diseases.

    The symposium, initiated by Professor Ihsane Benyayha, Dean of the UM6SS Dental School, and supported by international surgical charity Mercy Ships, brought together deans and directors from dental schools across Africa. This gathering, and its successful signing of a new association, marks a new chapter in intentional collaboration and innovation in dental education.

    “I think that we, as African leaders, African professors, African dentists, we can do a lot for our countries. We should help each other. I see that we have an American Dental Education Association, and a European one… Why not an African Education Dental Association?” said Professor Benyayha.

    “We’re at a time where it should no longer be acceptable for any country to have one dentist per 1 million people. Now is the time to solve this issue and overcome it. All the stakeholders and leaders we need are in this room. We need to ask ourselves; how can we take the next step?” said Dr. David Ugai, Mercy Ships Country Director for Guinea.

    The African Dental Education Symposium centered around a clear purpose: to catalyze African nations collaborating in new and dynamic ways to train dental professionals, develop sustainable education programs, and strengthen access to dental health throughout the continent.

    Key to fulfilling this mission is the launch of the African Education Dental Association, modeled after similar associations in the United States and Europe. The association will provide African dental educators with a unified voice, a space for sharing best practices, and a clear structure for long-term collaboration.

    “This is the realization of a great dream… This symposium is a necessity because everyone was in their own countries, working in isolation. But thanks to the symposium, we will be able to join forces, combine efforts, and try to share our points of view. Cooperation between African countries will allow the various dental schools in Africa to speak with one voice,” said Professor Mohamed Siddick Fadiga, Head of the Department of the Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry Dental School in Guinea.

    The symposium also featured international leaders, including the FDI World Dental Federation, the American Dental Education Association, and Association for Dental Education in Europe, offering their support as African deans and program directors take the lead in transforming dental education for the next generation.

    As of 2025, Mercy Ships has partnered with UM6SS to support the training of more than 20 dental professionals from Guinea, Benin, and Madagascar in advanced specialization programs. After graduating, these students will return home equipped to teach, mentor, and expand access to dental care in their own communities.

    “This symposium is the first to my knowledge. It’s the first time I’ve seen so many schools come together in one country to discuss the problems of dental education in Africa. So, it’s quite clear that this symposium is part of the history of dental education in Africa, and I hope it’s just the first of more,” said Professor El Hadj Babacar Mbodj, Dean of UCAD Dental School in Senegal.

    Mercy Ships’ partnerships extend far beyond Morocco. Across Africa, long-term collaboration with universities and ministries of health is helping expand infrastructure, enhance clinical training, and equip faculty to strengthen dental healthcare capacity. These efforts currently span the continent, including:

    • In Guinea, Mercy Ships’ ongoing partnership with Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry (UGANC) has revitalized the nation’s dental education opportunities and renovations have more than doubled the school’s training capacity.
    • In Senegal, an upcoming expansion to the dental school at Universite Cheikh Anta Diop in Dakar will increase clinical training chairs from 30 to over 70.
    • In Togo, Mercy Ships is helping to build the first simulation and clinical training space at the University of Lomé, which first opened a dental program in 2019.
    • In Benin, Mercy Ships is training future educators to reopen the nation’s only dental school, which closed in 2018 due to a lack of specialty professors and infrastructure.
    • In Burkina Faso, a brand-new partnership will support training faculty development at the country’s growing dental school.
    • In Madagascar, Mercy Ships is sponsoring dentists for specialization to become specialists and future national university professors.
    • In Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau, and Liberia, Mercy Ships is sponsoring a student exchange program through Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry that will increase access to dental education and expand the dentist workforce in their respective countries.

    “In the school’s years of existence, we have never thought about the next generation of teachers. But thanks to this partnership with Mercy Ships, we have hope for the survival of the school with the continuity of these young graduates who will return with their diplomas to our country. So, this partnership, for us, is very precious,” shared Professor Jeannot Randrianarivony, Dean of the University of Mahajanga Dental School in Madagascar.

    The African Dental Education Symposium reflects the heart of Mercy Ships’ mission: to bring hope and healing through surgical care and education, training, and advocacy. Events like the symposium offer a glimpse into a sustainable future where nations are equipped, educators are empowered, and communities have access to the care they need.

    – on behalf of Mercy Ships.

    For more information about Mercy Ships, contact:
    Eveline Vanduynhoven
    International PR manager – Special Projects
    Mercy Ships
    international.media@mercyships.org

    ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:
    Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with nations in Africa for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact. 

    Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy and the Global Mercy. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.  

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) Announces 20th Plenary Assembly in Rwanda

    Source: APO – Report:

    The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) (https://SECAM.org) is pleased to announce its 20th Plenary Assembly, scheduled to take place from 30 July to 4 August 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, under the theme: “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace.” This Assembly, coinciding with the Jubilee Year, offers a moment of deep ecclesial grace to evaluate the life and mission of the Church in Africa and to set forth a visionary roadmap for the next 25 years (2025–2050).

    A Continental Ecclesial Milestone

    The Plenary Assembly of SECAM is the most important gathering of the Catholic Church in Africa and its Islands. Held every three years, it brings together a significant number of Cardinals, Archbishops, Bishops, priests, religious men and women, and lay faithful from across the continent and beyond. This 20th edition is expected to host approximately 250 participants from all 54 African countries and its islands, along with invited dignitaries and Church partners from other continents, making it a truly continental and global ecclesial event. It will serve as a privileged moment of reflection, communion, and decision-making for the life and mission of the Church in Africa.

    The Assembly will be presided over by His Eminence Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo Besungu, Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of SECAM. Building on the mandate of the 19th Plenary Assembly in Accra (July 2022), the Kigali Assembly will evaluate progress in strengthening synodality, institutional autonomy, theological foundations, and regional collaboration across the Church in Africa.

    Advancing a Shared Vision

    Since 2022, SECAM has worked through its Standing Committee and Secretariat to promote greater communion and mission through:

    • Advancing synodality and participation at all levels;
    • Strengthening institutional and financial self-reliance;
    • Enhancing theological reflection and pastoral care;
    • Fostering intercontinental and ecumenical partnerships;
    • Raising Africa’s voice on global issues such as climate change, justice, and peace.

    Addressing Pastoral and Cultural Realities

    One major issue under review will be the pastoral accompaniment of Catholics in polygamous unions, a complex cultural reality in African societies and beyond. SECAM has engaged theologians across the continent to explore this topic theologically and pastorally.

    The Assembly will also feature key presentations, including:

    • A theological reflection on the theme: “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace”
    • A draft document entitled: “The Vision of the Church–Family of God in Africa and its Islands: 2025–2050”
    • A pastoral document on “Accompaniment of Persons in Polygamous Situations”

    These will be complemented by plenary discussions, working groups, liturgical celebrations, departmental reports, and a concluding message to the Church and society.

    The Twelve Pillars of the Church’s Future

    Earlier this year, in preparation for the Assembly, SECAM held a high-level seminar in Accra (April 2025) to develop a long-term vision for the African Church. Discussions centered around twelve key pillars:

    1. Evangelization (Catholic education and theological formation)
    2. A self-reliant Church;
    3. Family-based models of leadership;
    4. Missionary discipleship and synodality;
    5. Care for creation;
    6. Youth engagement and ecclesial renewal;
    7. Justice, peace, and integral human development;
    8. Ecumenism and interfaith dialogue;
    9. Digital evangelization;
    10. Health and well-being of God’s people;
    11. Liturgical life in African contexts;
    12. Church and political engagement.

    This strategic vision document will be presented for discussion and possible adoption by the bishops at the Kigali Assembly.

    Engaging Africa’s Socio-Political Challenges

    In keeping with its prophetic mission, SECAM will also assess current political and social dynamics across the regions of Africa, with a focus on:

    • Governance and public leadership;
    • Human rights and social justice;
    • Poverty and debt;
    • Climate and environmental stewardship;
    • Dialogue, peacebuilding, and interreligious relations;
    • Safeguarding and youth protection.

    – on behalf of Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

    For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
    communications.secam@gmail.com
    www.SECAM.org

    Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine Júnior
    Secretary General, SECAM
    Accra, Ghana

    About SECAM:
    Founded in 1969 during Pope St. Paul VI’s historic visit to Africa, SECAM is the continental structure of the Catholic Church in Africa and Madagascar. Its mission is to foster communion, promote evangelization, and be the moral and spiritual voice of the Church across the continent.

    Its key departments include:

    • Commission for Evangelization;
    • Justice, Peace and Development Commission (JPDC);
    • Department of Social Communication.

    In addition, SECAM operates a Liaison Office to the African Union based in Addis Ababa to ensure Church participation in continental policymaking and advocacy.

    SECAM is composed of eight regional episcopal bodies:

    • ACEAC (Central Africa), ACERAC (Central Africa), AHCE (Egypt), AMECEA (Eastern Africa), CEDOI (Indian Ocean), CERNA (North Africa), IMBISA (Southern Africa), RECOWA-CERAO (West Africa).
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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MoS Margherita to visit Eswatini, Lesotho, South Africa for G20 Meet

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, will undertake an official visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini, the Kingdom of Lesotho, and the Republic of South Africa from 18 to 25 July.

    During the first leg of his visit, the Minister will be in Eswatini from 18 to 22 July. He is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on King Mswati III and the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini. Margherita will also hold meetings with the Foreign Minister of Eswatini to discuss matters of mutual interest and review the progress of bilateral relations.

    The visit will focus on strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, capacity building, development partnerships, and people-to-people exchanges. The Minister will also engage with the Indian community and participate in events showcasing India’s development partnership initiatives in Eswatini. The visit is expected to further deepen the long-standing friendly relations between India and Eswatini.

    In the Kingdom of Lesotho, Margherita will pay a courtesy call on King Letsie III and the Right Samuel Matekane, Prime Minister of Lesotho. He will also hold bilateral discussions with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, as well as other senior ministers, including those responsible for Information, Communications, Science, Technology & Innovation, Education & Training, and Labour and Employment.

    This Ministerial visit to Lesotho is taking place after a gap of ten years. The last visit was in July 2015, when Dr. Mahesh Sharma visited Lesotho as Special Envoy of the Prime Minister to extend invitations for the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit.

    In South Africa, Margherita will lead the Indian delegation at the G20 Development Ministerial Meetings (DMM) scheduled to be held on 24–25 July 2025 in Skukuza. On the sidelines of the DMM, he is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with the South African Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Lydia Ramokgopa, along with other Ministers and Heads of Delegations from G20 member states, invited countries and international organisations.

    The Minister is also scheduled to have bilateral engagements with business leaders and members of the Indian community during his visit to Eswatini, Lesotho and South Africa.

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government moves to ban harmful captive lion breeding practices

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Government moves to ban harmful captive lion breeding practices

    The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is taking decisive action to phase out harmful captive lion breeding practices and reinforcing animal well-being through updated regulations, as part of ongoing efforts to protect South Africa’s wildlife.

    The department has announced significant progress toward the publication of a Prohibition Notice that will ban the establishment of new captive lion breeding facilities in South Africa.

    This decisive step forms part of broader efforts to phase out intensive breeding practices for commercial gain and to strengthen the country’s biodiversity laws under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA), 2004.

    “This marks a turning point in our approach to wildlife conservation. By prohibiting new captive lion breeding facilities and addressing critical animal well-being provisions in the Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) Regulations to be published in due course, we are committed to enforcing clear, effective, and legally robust measures that protect South Africa’s natural heritage and address concerns raised by the public, conservation experts, and stakeholders,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said on Tuesday.

    The Lion Prohibition Notice implements a key recommendation from the Ministerial Task Team Report and in line with the objectives of the Policy Position on the conservation and Sustainable use of Elephant, Lion, Leopard, and Rhinoceros. 

    The Notice prohibits the establishment of new captive lion facilities for commercial purposes, aligning with global conservation standards and ethical wildlife management practices.

    Since the Notice was tabled before the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on 10 June 2025, the required 30-day consideration period has passed.

    The Minister said the department has completed critical administrative steps for promulgation by the Executive Authority.

    Additionally, the department is engaging provincial Members of the Executive Council (MECs) under Section 87A (3) of NEM:BA to facilitate implementation of this Prohibition Notice. 

    The Minister will provide further updates at stakeholder engagements, including the upcoming G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group meeting in Kruger National Park. 

    “We are building a regulatory foundation that prioritises animal wellbeing, biodiversity protection, and practical enforcement. The department remains fully committed to finalising and implementing these reforms without delay, ensuring a sustainable future for South Africa’s wildlife,” George said. –SAnews.gov.za

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  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deploying technology to save the white rhino

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Deploying technology to save the white rhino

    Government has launched a strategy that seeks to rebuild the Kruger National Park’s white rhino population from just over 2 000 to 12 000 within the next decade by using technology.

    Government aims to monitor rhino herds daily using drones, GPS collars, and digital reporting systems to provide real-time data to enforcement teams.

    “Starting this year, 90 Rhino Monitors will be trained and deployed annually across Kruger National Park. They are not just protecting rhino. They are protecting livelihoods, family legacies, and the possibility of green jobs for a generation to come,” Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister, Dr Dion George said on Tuesday.

    The Minister made these remarks during the official launch of the Rhino Renaissance Campaign at the Kruger National Park, which is grounded on 24/7 rhino tracking; biological management such as targeted dehorning; DNA tagging and genetic research; enforcement cooperation across provincial, national, and regional levels and, critically, resource mobilisation to sustain operations over the long term.

    With South Africa currently hosting the Group Twenty (G20) Presidency, this campaign has been adopted as a G20 Legacy Project to rally global support, both diplomatic and financial, to scale this work.

    South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency on 1 December 2024, which runs to 30 November 2025, under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability”.

    “This work does not stand alone. We are fighting wildlife crime on every front. Our National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking is anchored in the Medium-Term Development Plan, the country’s roadmap for the next five years. 

    “This strategy brings together key government departments – including my department, Police, Justice, Border Management, Intelligence, [the] South African National Parks (SANParks) and the provincial conservation entities – in a united, multidisciplinary response. It also builds strong partnerships with the private sector, civil society, and communities on the ground,” George explained.

    Tackling wildlife crimes

    Fighting wildlife crime is one of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s six core priorities. 

    “At its heart is a commitment to a fair and sustainable future – one where our iconic wildlife supports livelihoods, uplifts communities, and strengthens our national identity. 

    “The Rhino Renaissance Campaign is a vital part of this effort. It supports our vision of a fair industry for lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos — a future where these species are not only protected but thrive alongside the people who live among them.
    “No country or sector can tackle this threat alone. South Africa is building strong enforcement networks across borders and finalising agreements with rhino horn destination countries,” the Minister said.

    Government is engaging partners such as Interpol, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) neighbours to strengthen intelligence-sharing and cross-border cooperation.

    South Africa’s response goes beyond law enforcement. It includes financial intelligence, anti-corruption efforts, and international diplomacy- because wildlife crime is deeply embedded in global criminal networks.

    Decline in rhino poaching

    As of the end of June, 195 rhinos had been poached across South Africa this year – a reduction of 35 compared to the same period in 2024.

    “While any loss is too many, this decrease signals that our intensified enforcement efforts are starting to have an effect. June recorded the lowest monthly poaching figures so far this year, with 22 rhinos killed nationwide. Here in the  Kruger, which is still a primary target for poachers, we lost 11 rhinos in both May and June, down from 17 in January and 30 in February.

    “These numbers are a stark reminder that the threat remains real and unrelenting. But they also show that progress is possible. Our rangers, enforcement teams, and intelligence units continue to work tirelessly on the front lines to protect our wildlife and hold the line,” the Minister said.

    Through rhino dehorning, South Africa removes the reasons rhinos are being killed in the first place.
    “Dehorning does not harm the animal. It saves its life. It buys us time – to restore numbers, upgrade security, and disrupt demand,” he explained.

    The country is already seeing green shoots which include the relocation of 2 000 rhinos from African Parks to safe havens across the country; Munyawana Conservancy and others are growing populations through rewilding; cross-border work is underway in Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and across the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area.

    Safe havens have been identified in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Botswana and collaboration between government and private wildlife owners in the Integrated Wildlife Zones has been enhanced. –SAnews.gov.za
     

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  • MIL-OSI Africa: Creecy dissolves RAF board amid governance challenges

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Creecy dissolves RAF board amid governance challenges

    The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, has decided to dissolve the Board of Directors of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) due to persistent governance and operational challenges that have beset the fund and significantly undermined its ability to discharge its statutory mandate.

    While the fund is grappling with governance challenges and concerns, which were further confirmed through internal oversight and regulatory engagements, the Minister reiterated on Tuesday that her department would continue to pursue all necessary measures to restore institutional stability.

    The Department of Transport has also committed to enhancing the RAF’s capacity to fulfil its statutory obligations to the public and ensure a speedy and equitable access to the Road Accident Benefit Scheme by the road accident victims.

    READ | Ministry of Transport to engage Road Accident Fund board

    Last month the RAF board suspended Collins Letsoalo as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for not attending a Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) hearing in Parliament.

    Furthermore, SCOPA resolved to launch a full committee inquiry into allegations of maladministration, financial mismanagement, wasteful and reckless expenditure, and related financial misconduct at the entity.

    READ | SCOPA probes RAF for maladministration 

    SCOPA made this decision after months of repeated attempts by the committee to obtain truthful, complete information from the RAF Board and executive management to little avail.

    The department has flagged as a concern the inconsistent and, at times, reckless handling of the suspension of the CEO, which attracted a legal challenge and institutional uncertainty.

    Through an internal oversight and regulatory engagements, the department noted deep divisions within the Board itself, evidenced by most resolutions being passed through the use of casting votes, rather than consensus, reflecting a lack of cohesion in critical decision-making processes.

    The board failed to fill at least two critical executive positions, which are critical to the mandate of the fund, namely that of Chief Claims Officer and Head of Legal.

    Furthermore, the department identified the protracted and costly litigation pursued by the RAF on the application of accounting standards as a concern. This has resulted in further strain on the entity’s financial resources and capacity.

    The department said the frequent incurrence of default judgments against the RAF, exacerbates its contingent liabilities and weakens its financial sustainability.

    “This has resulted in the loss of confidence in the board’s ability to run the entity effectively. On 5 June 2025, the Minister issued letters to the eleven members of the RAF board, affording them the opportunity to make representations regarding her intention to dissolve the board due to their failure to discharge their fiduciary duties effectively. 

    “The representations were received and have been duly considered. Consequently, the board has been dissolved,” the department said.

    Interim measures and review

    A submission has been prepared requesting the Minister of Finance to appoint an interim functionary as Accounting Authority in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act.

    The proposed appointment is intended to prevent a governance vacuum while a new board is being constituted.

    “A draft public advertisement has been prepared to commence the process of appointing a new board, ensuring transparent and merit-based selection in line with applicable legislation. 

    “To support the development of a sustainable operational and governance model, the Minister has initiated the appointment of a panel of independent experts to review the RAF’s business processes and propose actionable recommendations. Members of the panel will be announced in due course.

    “Furthermore, a request has been made to the SIU [Special Investing Unit]  to establish if the current investigation under Proclamation 44 of 2024 covers the events of the last three months and if not, formally request the expansion of the scope to cover these events. 

    “The response from the SIU in this regard is eagerly awaited,” the department said. –SAnews.gov.za

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  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government welcomes ruling against online child sexual abuse content

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Government welcomes ruling against online child sexual abuse content

    The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies and the Film and Publication Board (FPB) have welcomed the ruling by the Gauteng High Court ordering Meta to shut down certain Instagram accounts and WhatsApp channels found to be distributing explicit Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), commonly known as child pornography.

    Judge Mudunwazi Makamu ordered Meta to take down any content of a sexual nature that involves school children and to permanently delete any associated profiles.

    “With the development and expansion of digital technologies, the crime of online child exploitation and abuse has grown exponentially and has become the most insidious form of global, modern and borderless cybercrime. The psychological effects on victims of child pornography are long- lasting and devastating, hence we applaud the high court ruling,” Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele said on Tuesday.

    The Films and Publications Act (The Act) defines child pornography as any image, however created, or any description or representation, that visually depicts a child engaged in sexual activity. 

    The Act makes it a criminal offense to produce, distribute, possess, or expose children to child pornography. The penalties for these offenses are severe and include imprisonment and fines.

    “Parents and guardians are encouraged to regularly monitor their children’s online activities and educate them about harmful and prohibited content that could lead to their arrest as well as the long-term psychological effects of such content on victims,” the Deputy Minister said.

    Harmful content is described as content that causes emotional, psychological or normal distress to a person, whether it be through any online or offline medium, including through the internet.

    Prohibited content is described as content which amounts to propaganda for war, incitement of imminent violence, advocacy of hatred that is based on an identifiable group characteristic, or is prohibited in section 16 (2), 16 (4) and 18 (3).

    The FPB has encouraged the public to report any harmful and prohibited material through its toll-free hotline at 0800 148 148 or on WhatsApp Hotline Channel on 083 428 4767. 

    The public can also access these links on the FPB website at www.fpb.org.za. –SAnews.gov.za

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  • MIL-OSI Africa: Rise in e-commerce activity boosts SA’s supply chain sector

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Rise in e-commerce activity boosts SA’s supply chain sector

    Despite facing ongoing challenges, South Africa’s supply chain sector is experiencing growth fuelled by a surge in e-commerce and advancements in technology. 

    This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was speaking at the opening ceremony of the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing on Wednesday. 

    “Our business communities have been resilient and adapting through strategies like diversifying suppliers, holding more inventory, and investing in digital transformation,” he told delegates.

    Mashatile is in China for a strategic working visit, which began on Monday. Its aim is to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance economic cooperation between the two nations. 

    The Deputy President participated in the CISCE at the invitation of Ren Hongbin, the chairperson of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). The prestigious event highlights the latest advancements in supply chain management. 

    Mashatile said this high-level expo is essential for both countries, as it fosters trade, investment, cooperation, innovation and learning within the global supply chain ecosystem.

    “South Africa is committed to strengthening global supply chains and fostering resilience in the face of challenges. In today’s rapidly changing world, the global supply chain landscape is facing unprecedented challenges, from natural disasters to political upheavals.” 

    He assured the expo that government has also adopted policies and strategies that are conducive for businesses to thrive. 

    “We understand the importance of building robust supply chains that can withstand disruptions and ensure the efficient flow of goods and services.

    “Our diverse economy and strategic location make us a natural gateway for trade and investment, connecting Africa to the rest of the world.” 

    The Deputy President described China as an essential partner in South Africa’s economic journey, recognising significant opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth.

    “Together, we can leverage our strengths and capabilities to further build supply chains that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also sustainable and resilient.

    “The fact that China and South Africa have a strong desire to diversify and expand trade between Africa and China is crucial to our efforts to create a solid supply chain.” 

    Mashatile said South Africa’s export portfolio to China comprises mainly basic commodities. 

    “While the trade volumes confirm South Africa’s natural endowment, the heavy slant towards mineral-based exports belies our advanced infrastructure, our diversified industrial base, and our leading service sectors.” 

    Showcasing unique SA offerings

    The South African government delegation was accompanied by 30 manufacturers and producers of uniquely South African products and services. 

    These products and services showcase the diversity of South African exports, ranging from ethically sourced and clean cosmetics comprising pure, natural extracts, as well as durable electro-technical equipment that has passed the tests of extreme African climate conditions. 

    “Naturally, our offering would not be complete without the companies that are showcasing the finest of South African clothing, leather and footwear.  

    “We are exceptionally proud of the delegation that comprises plastics, chemical and mining engineering firms, whose services have met the Chinese standards, such that they have been able to jointly complete infrastructure projects with Chinese firms.” 

    The Deputy President believes that the expo is instrumental in linking up Chinese buyers and importers with the South African producers at the stands today. 

    “One of the most critical steps in South Africa’s journey to balancing its trade with China will be the extensive listing of South African products on e-commerce platforms like Alibaba.

    “We are also making efforts to ensure the placement of quality South African products in various Free Trade Zones throughout China.”

    Trade on the African continent

    With regards to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Deputy President said the project fosters economic integration and increased trade and investment within Africa, while also providing opportunities for China to deepen its engagement with the continent. 

    To diversify its energy balance, reduce carbon emissions and improve energy security, Mashatile said South Africa is also rapidly increasing its dependence on renewable energy sources. 

    “We have set ambitious targets for renewable energy deployment, particularly in solar and wind power.”

    Through the Renewable Energy Masterplan, government has set out how South Africa can set up a new manufacturing industry in renewable energy and battery storage value chains. 

    The masterplan also aims to attract at least R15 billion in investment by 2030 and train “green workers” for employment in 25 000 direct jobs. – SAnews.gov.za

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